Inklingo

How to Say "react" in Spanish

The Spanish word forreactis responderB1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.

English → SpanishB1
VerbB1neutral/formal
responding to a stimulus or treatment
A vibrant storybook illustration of a large green sunflower bending its head to face a bright, yellow sun, demonstrating a reaction to a stimulus.

Examples

El paciente no responde al tratamiento.

The patient is not responding to the treatment.

La empresa debe responder por los daños causados.

The company must be responsible for the damages caused.

Mi coche viejo ya no responde bien en las subidas.

My old car doesn't perform well on hills anymore.

Responder POR (Responsibility)

When 'responder' means 'to be responsible for something,' it must be followed by the preposition 'por': 'Tú respondes por el equipo' (You are responsible for the team).

Using it for Emotional Reaction

Mistake:Using 'Respondí con tristeza' (I responded with sadness).

Correction: For emotional reaction, use 'Reaccioné' or 'Contesté'. 'Responder' usually implies a physical or functional reaction, or a formal answer.

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